An epiphyllum or leaf cactus is easy to propagate yourself. There are two methods by which you can grow cuttings from your epiphyllum: by sowing or by cuttings. This is how the propagation of leaf cacti works.
Two methods of propagation of epiphyllum.
To propagate Epiphyllum, you can sow seeds or cut cuttings.
Propagation by cuttings is easier. It also has the advantage of growing identical leaf cacti. When sowing seeds is not sure how the flower colors and shapes will look later.
If you sow seeds, you will have to be patient. It can take many weeks before germination occurs, depending on the variety. If you propagate Epiphyllum from cuttings, the growing process is much more rapid.
Sowing epiphyllum
Sowing is done in the spring, because then the long days begin and it is light longer. Sow the seed on coco hum or coco swelling tablets. It should not be covered, as Epiphyllum is a light germinator. Gently spray the seed with water.
The best place for sowing is a greenhouse, because in it you can keep the humidity constant.
Place the seed pots (7,00€ at Amazon*) or the greenhouse in a warm, bright place. However, they should not be placed directly in the sun.
Propagate Epiphyllum via cuttings
cuttings in spring or summer
about 15 cm length
Allow the cut to dry for a longer period of time
put cuttings into prepared pots
moisten a little
place in a warm and bright place
Choose healthy shoots to cut the cuttings. Prepare growing pots with loose growing soil, which should not be too nutritious.
Insert the cuttings into the substrate about three to four inches deep. You can grow several shoots in one pot. Keep the soil evenly moist, but never too wet. Place the pots in a bright and warm place. However, the shoots will not tolerate direct sun.
Once the cuttings are rooted, continue to care for the epiphylls as adult plants.
Tips
If the epiphyllum does not bloom, it is often because the plant has not been allowed adequate winter dormancy. Also, foliage cacti do not flower until they are older than five years.
